Colchester supermarket aims to bridge gap between foodbanks and stores

The Colchester-based community supermarket offers discounted groceries

A new discounted supermarket has said its aim is to bridge the gap between foodbanks and affordable grocery stores.

The Colchester-based community store is set to sell discounted food and household essentials.

The supermarket is set to be open Thursday to Saturday from 09:30 to 12:30 GMT.

It is the seventh community supermarket to receive support from Essex County Council's levelling up funding.

The supermarket is set to be run by Divine Assembly Ministries, a Colchester-based church led by Nigerian pastors, and the scheme has also received funding from Colchester City Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

There are also community supermarkets in Jaywick, Chelmsford, Canvey Island and Harlow, and there are two in Basildon.

'Ever-increasing costs'

Louise McKinlay, deputy leader of the county council and cabinet member for community, partnerships and performance, said: "It's not just about food.

"Our community supermarkets are also vital local hubs, bringing neighbours and communities together and offering a warm welcome and friendly face to anyone needing support.

"With more locations opening throughout 2024, there will soon be one in every borough, district and city of Essex, providing opportunities to residents across the county."

Elizabeth Akinyemi, co-pastor and community pastor of Divine Assembly Ministries, said: "With ever-increasing costs for everyday essentials such as food and fuel, there is a real need to help families who may be struggling to make ends meet.

"We are ready to build relationships with all our customers and welcome anyone from the local area to pop in, choose some food you like and come and say hello."

The supermarket is set to open at 17:00 at The Centre, in Hawthorn Avenue on Greenstead Estate, on 1 March. Residents with a Colchester postcode need to pay a membership fee to be able use the shop once a week.